Dear Assisi Family,
As always, I hope this communication finds you well and happy. As Francis sent his followers into the world he told them, “We have been called to heal wounds, to unite what has fallen apart, and to bring home those who have lost their way.“ Francis’ words reflect the essence of Yogananda’s mission, which is also our mission. Rather than adding to the world’s clamor, negativity, and divisiveness, we are offering a positive alternative: the universal path of silence, prayer, meditation, and God-Realization as taught by both Jesus and Yogananda.
After 11 years in our building, I am pleased to say that through God’s grace and your support, our mission is thriving. Over 50 people, including a number from Canada and out of state, attended our retreat this past summer. Our podcast series, Wrestling With God, has an average audience of 3500, many of them people under the age of 40 from India, South America, and Europe. Our online classes are at full capacity. We have resumed our in-person service on Thursday night, and our Sunday morning service is gaining in momentum. An online 28-day video course will soon be available. It is a joy to see how far we have come in 11 years and to imagine how we may continue evolving to serve people virtually and in person.
In thanksgiving for all our blessings and celebration of our 11-year anniversary in our spiritual home, we are asking you to consider a one time financial gift to the Assisi Institute in the amount of $11 or any multiple of 11 that is comfortable for you. The spiritual meaning of the number 11 reflects our mission: 11 represents a higher source of wisdom and the use of the gift of awareness to deliver truth in the service of humanity. As I make this appeal with full awareness of the financial uncertainty that surrounds us, my hope is that you would consider your monetary gift as a kind of prayer to support our mission, sent with gratitude, mindfulness, and hope. We will conclude this appeal at Thanksgiving. Simply make your donation directly below or mail a check to 1400 N Winton Road, Rochester NY 14609. With the humility of Francis and my profound gratitude, I offer you a prayer for your reflection:
Beloved Gurus,
As we support your mission
We offer our gratitude for 11 years of grace
And renew our commitment
To the truths of Self and God Realization
You offer us
In love,
Isha Das